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Ascites, by definition, implies the loss of blood or of its
fluid content into spaces within the body, so that the circulating
volume diminishes.
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) SBP is the development of an infection in the abdominal cavity, despite the absence of an obvious source for the infection. It occurs almost exclusively in people with portal hypertension (increased pressure over the portal vein). The diagnosis of SBP requires paracentesis from the abdominal cavity. If the fluid contains bacteria or large numbers of white blood cells, infection is confirmed and antibiotics are required to avoid complications. In addition to antibiotics, infusions of albumin are usually administered.
Thrombosis Complications sometimes involve portal vein thrombosis and splenic vein thrombosis. Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot inside a blood vessel, obstructing the flow of blood through the vessel. Blood clotting affects the hepatic portal vein or varices associated with splenic vein. This can lead to portal hypertension and reduction in blood flow. When a liver cirrhosis patient is suffering from thrombosis, it is not possible to perform a liver transplant, unless the thrombosis is very minor.
Hepatorenal Syndrome Extreme disruption of the blood flow to and within the kidneys is called hepatorenal syndrome. The “free fluid” in the belly leads to additional fluid retention by the kidneys due to an overproduction of blood pressure hormones.